Sparkle nail trends! And some Bold Colors

Glitter Gal

Michelle Resendiz – Chicago, IL.
In my travels I have come across some really awesome nail polish colors and trends. For spring, what I love the most is all the color and bright personalities that tend to pop out. Take a look at some really bright & amazing colors that I have fallen in love with for the Spring season.
My favorite nail polish on the market right now is Nails INC London (available at Sephora.com) and Glitter Gal. They are two very different companies with amazing things to offer. Here’s some information on the products and what they have coming up.

NAILS INC Nail Polish 

What it is: Professionally formulated, catwalk-inspired nail colors.

What it does: This formulation has been specially created and developed using the
latest professional technologies for instant and exceptional results.
The formulation is long lasting, ultra glossy, and easy to apply so
that you get the best possible results every time. All of nails inc.
polishes and products are named after iconic places in the UK and
streets in London in order to celebrate the brand's British heritage.
The range includes shades such as "Piccadilly Circus," "The Mall"
(where you will find Buckingham Palace), and "The Thames," the most
famous river in the UK.

What it is formulated WITHOUT:
- Parabens
- Sulfates
- Synthetic Fragrances
- Phthalates
- GMOs
- Triclosan

What else you need to know: Nails inc. has a huge color range including everything from super
glossy cream shades, liquid metals, shimmery metallics, and glitter
shades. Nails inc. really has something for everyone, every outfit,
and every occasion.

Glitter Gal Australia is amazing! These Holographic nail polish’s are so different from anything I’ve even seen before…. Unique to Glitter Gal is our truly extraordinary Australian 3D range of Holographic nail polishes. A true high intensity multi-chromatic 3D/Holographic effect which captures light and reflects a full spectrum of vivid colour. Nail Enamel that has created a blogging infatuation. Formulated with the highest blend of ingredients, including our fine and intense holographic formula, to create the most superior product available today on the international nail polish market.

http://affairsmagazine.com/wordpress2/2012/03/27/spring-nail-trend-sparkles-and-twinkles/

Anna Szabo and Kerry Howell have been friends for nearly 20 years. When they first met working at a law firm, the two gals bonded over their passion for makeup and their desire to leave the corporate culture.

Anna, a true Aussie with the spirit of adventure, went out and created a private label cosmetics business, making products for some of the biggest Asian and Australian companies. Kerry, a former model and makeup artist, went on to get married. They kept in touch over the years and talked often about creating their own line. Anna’s husband, a special effects colour technician one day introduced the two to non traditional colour pigments. This began the Glitter Gal’s quest to create a unique colour line inspired by the spirit of Australia. “We began mixing our own formulas and started selling our products online. We got a phenomenal response from the blogging community. We knew immediately that we were on to something unique.” We wanted to produce proprietary quality formulas with quick to market lead times. We knew that doing so would take a big investment. We dove head first by taking our retirement savings to create our own labs and buying manufacturing equipment. “We’ve Made a lot of sacrifices, and its been a long ride, but we’ve never once looked back!” says Anna optimistically. “That’s the Aussie way!”

There’s always a ton of trends in nail colors and switches from nudes… to brights… to sparkle, there’s something for everyone right now. Let’s take a look at my favorites from everyone!
The Sparkle Trend:

Glitter Gal's 10 to Midnight

Glitter Gal BLUE (Indoor)

Glitter Gal Blue (outdoor in the sun!)

The 2 Accent Nails:

Nails INC London available at Sephora. Check out my SUPERHERO mani!

The BOLD and the BEAUTIFUL:

Nails INC. MY ALL TIME FAVE BLUE EVER! Seriously, this Blue is so vibrant.. Perfect for anyone!

Nail's INC. The HERO shade. Perfect Red... So bright, so flirty.. this will be in my collection all year round!

YoungBlood Cosmetics anyone?

Michelle Resendiz – Chicago, Il.
I really wanted to re-create a great, dewy, fresh-faced look for you guys today. I used some of my favorite things from Youngblood Cosmetics, and a mixture of others to create this highly do-able look for spring 2012.
Youngblood has some really amazing mineral make-up I don’t know if you guys remember, but we did a review of them earlier, and they have been some of my favorite things in my make-up bag since.

To re-create ‘My Dewy look’ I used:

• Beauty Balm by Too Faced Cosmetics
• Youngblood’s Luminous Crème Blush in Champagne Life
• Youngblood’s Cream blush in Plum Satin
• Mac’s Loose powder in Shimmery Peach (This isn’t available in stores anymore sadly, but if I can find it anywhere I will let you know)
• Buxom’s Lip plumping gloss in Purple Haze
• Youngblood’s Lip gloss in Exposed
• Navy Blue Eyeliner from Avon’s Mega Impact collection
• Tarte’s Smart Mascara, and Accent lashes.

Here’s a little ‘How to’ video with a better look at everything we used.

Happy make-uping loves!

Source: http://affairsmagazine.com/wordpress2/2012/04/05/make-up-of-the-day-motd-the-dewy-look/

Disclaimer: I am not being paid by Youngblood Mineral Cosmetics , or by anyone else to ‘promote a product’. I was sent products for review, I personally try them and write-up a review’s based on my own personal experience’s and opinion’s. This is my true thoughts on these products based on the application, smell, texture, and usage. Affairs Magazine makes every attempt to provide an honest opinion about the products that we recommend. This includes providing an opinion of a specific product and educating readers regarding the benefits, drawbacks and other useful information about these products.

Be still my heart... its more CAROL'S DAUGHTER

Michelle Resendiz – Chicago, IL.
I have had enough e-mails from all of you LOVELY people out there, asking about Carol’s Daughter , that I was able to put it into its own article! SO, this week on Ask Michelle we are doing a little question and answer session about Carol’s Daughter’s products and attacking the myths and truths. I hope this clears up some questions and concerns you guys had!

Dear Michelle,
I went on Carol’s Daughter after seeing your beauty overhaul, and it looks like the products are for African American hair? Are you sure this works on my Asian hair?
Thanks, Dazed and Confused.

Michelle,
I’m a white girl… basically like you, and I’ve noticed that Carol’s daughter has been weighing my hair down! It doesn’t seem to come clean, like my hair is still kinda oily. What am I doing wrong? I love the way it smells and I don’t want to give it up
In love with smells.com

YO!
I’ve seen some of the styling products at ULTA, but I dont know how to use them. What should I buy? Can you tell me what the Macadamia line smells like or what it’s used for?
Thanks woman!

Hi Michelle,
I love your blog, you are so pretty! Can you help me find some body care that smells awesome? I walk by some girls at the beach and they make me so jealous. Also, I’m very fair skinned…. Could you suggest some good self tanners?
–In love

Prtty Peaushun was also mentioned in our little video for the perfect ‘self tanner’ I love this product! It’s my miricle worker when I go out on photo-shoots or events. They have it in 3 different colors to choose from, and it really does give your body that perfect glow. This is the secret among the stars everyone seems to be using it now! Check them out!

Source: http://affairsmagazine.com/wordpress2/2012/04/05/beauty-vlog-ask-michelle-about-carols-daughter/

Disclaimer: I am not being paid by Carol’s Daughter , or by anyone else to ‘promote a product’. I was sent products for review, I personally try them and write-up a review’s based on my own personal experience’s and opinion’s. This is my true thoughts on these products based on the application, smell, texture, and usage. Affairs Magazine makes every attempt to provide an honest opinion about the products that we recommend. This includes providing an opinion of a specific product and educating readers regarding the benefits, drawbacks and other useful information about these products.

Co BIGELOW IS AMAZE-BALLS!!!!!!!

Michelle Resendiz – Chicago, Il.
I was so pleased when I got home and noticed a box from CO Bigelow Chemists. If you don’t know who they are… this is the time to start familiarizing yourself with the amazing all natural products that they have. CO Bigelow is an Apothecary in fact its the oldest one, being established in 1838!

Our landmark apothecary has been providing prescriptions, healing remedies, unique and unusual beauty products and hard to find apothecary items since 1838.
C.O. Bigelow was initially founded by Dr. Galen Hunter. Originally called The Village Apothecary Shop, it was bought and renamed by Clarence Otis Bigelow in 1880. Mr. Bigelow worked alongside Dr. Hunter before taking over the shop.
Part of our unique legacy has been the passing of ownership from employer to employee. Since 1939, three generations of Ginsberg’s have owned and operated the shop, passing from father to son to grandson.
For nearly two centuries C.O. Bigelow has been providing customers with customized service and specialty products that truly make a difference in their lives.
Today, as always, C.O. Bigelow transcends our expectations of a pharmacy— it is a place of discovery, conversation, learning, laughter and community.
C.O. Bigelow lives on

They have everything from ‘beauty’ products to ‘for the home’ products, and I’m obsessed with some of the things they sent me. I’m sure you are going to notice them all over the magazine, and that’s because WE LOVE THEM! Take a look at what we have LOVED so far.

La Florentina - Boxed Soap – Giraterra (Black Soap)
A handcrafted Tuscan Soap created in wooden and bronze molds. This refined soap with hints of warm, aged oak wood.
Let me just start off with my favorite thing so far. This soap smells like something out of this world, and it comes packaged in this special little box… you almost don’t want to open it. This is such a classy box of soap! The tought of using it is almost forbidden because, really, all you want to do is cherish it and smell it forever. I did use it (against my I MUST SAVE THIS will) and I was amazed. My skin felt like heaven, it smelled like heaven, and it was the best bath with a bar soap I’ve ever had. This is on my list of things to use until I die. It’s handmade, in Tuscany… oh the royalty of it all!

****

C.O. Bigelow Mentha Vitamin Body Wash # 1411
No. 1411 Mentha Body – Vitamin Body Wash. PEPPERMINT OIL 1%
Our mint-infused body wash provides an invigorating sensation while cleansing and refreshing skin. Our wake-you-up formula deeply nourishes with Vitamins A, C & E to keep skin extra-healthy and looking its best.

• Infused with cooling peppermint for an invigorating experience.
• Not tested on animals.
• Made in USA

I’m not a huge mint fan, but this… this is AWESOME! It smells like a mix of mints, and it makes my skin feel so soft and tingle. I believe that this is a ‘stress reliever’ wash, because the first day I used it I had just gotten home from a stressful workday, and this totally changed my mood. Plus, I have heard that they put the smell of mint in those stress releasing creams. So, I would think that’s why it worked.
Also, the scent of the wash mixed with the steam of the shower really seemed to make it a nice & breathable atmosphere. I can not wait to use this when I’m sick I bet this is going to be the best cure for that stuffy nose.

****

Marvis Jasmin Mint Toothpaste

A sweet and cool touch of mint with the surprising charm of the floral note of jasmin. Marvis flavors are created by offsetting the aroma of mint, to provide the freshness you need, with innovative notes to offer you a long-lasting pleasurable taste sensation that can be different every day. The Marvis Formula: White, protected teeth, fresh breath all day long, helps prevent tooth decay, tartar and plaque.

• Contains Fluoride
• A surprising fusion and harmonious blend
• Fragrant hints of jasmin delicately mixed with the freshness of mint

My new favorite toothpaste! I think this might even whiten better than the OPTIC WHITE toothpaste that I had been using. I used this just a handful of times and I’ve already noticed a difference in my teeth. Also, the flavor is something out of this world! Very different in texture and all around flavor. I loved it. I am definately a happy camper!

Source: http://affairsmagazine.com/wordpress2/2012/04/02/beauty-review-co-bigelow-apothecaries/

Disclaimer: I am not being paid by CO Bigelow , or by anyone else to ‘promote a product’. I was sent products for review, I personally try them and write-up a review’s based on my own personal experience’s and opinion’s. This is my true thoughts on these products based on the application, smell, texture, and usage. Affairs Magazine makes every attempt to provide an honest opinion about the products that we recommend. This includes providing an opinion of a specific product and educating readers regarding the benefits, drawbacks and other useful information about these products.

Make Up Forever Powder Blush

Michelle Resendiz – Chicago, IL.
Make-up Forever is one of those brands that everyone uses, everyone loves, and you always hear about. I hadn’t had the opportunity to try anything from them until now, and I can’t believe I’ve waited this long to try them out. I tried this Eye Shadow/Powder Blush in ‘lilac #89′ and I love it! I used it as a blush, and it was the perfect shade on my cheeks. It’s not too pink, it wasn’t too purple, and it’s a really fun and new twist for spring. I really wanted to add a pop of color to my face without having to take so much time doing my eyes in the morning so this was the perfect new addition to my make-up routine. Take a look!

Here I used it as the perfect blush for a night out on the town!

Here I used it in the morning with a purple eye liner for my daytime 'work day' look. Blush and Eye shadow! Just very subtle and light...

Here I used it and layered it on thicker for a photo-shoot with Cadence Gamache. Photos to come soon!

This is a highly pigmented color that adds a really blend-able & flawless look to your cheeks or lids. One thing I liked was the layering I could do with it, to intensify my look. Hooray for Make-up Forever! You should definitely grab some of this for spring… it’s available at Sephora.

This is available in 125 different shades... Matte, Iridescent, and Satin!

Here's what it looks like UN-edited and in the buff

Powder Blush
The unique texture of MAKE UP FOR EVER Powder Blush is due to its high pigment density, which makes it last and last. That’s why makeup artists love it! You can obtain maximum coverage with the Matte texture; the Semi-Matte has a silky, satiny feel; and the iridescent shades give a transparent sheen.

Source: http://affairsmagazine.com/wordpress2/2012/04/02/beauty-review-make-up-forevers-powder-blush/

Disclaimer: I am not being paid by Make Up Forever , or by anyone else to ‘promote a product’. I was sent products for review, I personally try them and write-up a review’s based on my own personal experience’s and opinion’s. This is my true thoughts on these products based on the application, smell, texture, and usage. Affairs Magazine makes every attempt to provide an honest opinion about the products that we recommend. This includes providing an opinion of a specific product and educating readers regarding the benefits, drawbacks and other useful information about these products. Photos taken by me with digital camera, or iPhone camera at application.

Plus size steal of the week Little Black Dress

Michelle Resendiz – Chicago, Il.

It’s seems like its been too long since we had some plus size lovin’ over here… So it’s time for a Plus size Steal this week. Since it is Valentine’s week I thought it would be nice to find a couple cute dresses for our girls to hit the town in. I went over to a couple of my favorite stores and did some cyber shopping for you guys. Take a look at the awesome deals we found.

Black Challis Floral Tube Dress Available at Torrid

Fashioned in a vivid of-the-moment floral, this black challis strapless dress is a stylish combination of fashion and flirt. Stylish pin tucks add visual interest to the bodice while soft shirring accents the skirt. No slip piping and elastic back. Includes a black skinny braided belt. Back zip entry.

• Size 1 measures 31″ from center front
• Self: 100% rayon; lining: 100% polyester
• Hand wash cold; hang dry
• Imported

*CUSTOMER FAVORITE* Retro Chic By Torrid – Black Off-Shoulder Belted Sheath Dress Available at Torrid

Look polished with a feminine twist in this black off-shoulder sheath dress. Features flap over detail on the collar with patent thin belt included. Back zip closure.

• Size 14 measures 41″ from shoulder
• 76% rayon, 21% nylon, 3% spandex
• Professional dry clean only
• Imported

ASOS CURVE Tulip Dress available at asos.com

Tulip plus size dress by ASOS CURVE. Featuring a scoop neckline with box pleat to centre front, sleeveless styling, a fitted high waist with shirred panelling and a self-tie sash to reverse, and pleats to a draped tulip skirt. Designed with a knee cut length.

Plus size fashion Spring Dresses

Michelle Resendiz- Chicago, Il.

Spring has to be my favorite time of year. I love it… the flowers are blooming, the sun is shining, the rain is pouring…. you get a little of everything in this season. But most of all I love the new beginnings it brings. Spring is a time where most of us clean out our closets and get rid of the old, bring in the new, clean up around the house, etc. Let’s clean up our act while we are at it and get some cute spring-y dresses shall we?

I encourage you to try these dresses from Torrid.com, they are perfect for spring and summer. The colors are beautiful and that’s what’s in right now… color blocking, bright colors and patterns, flowers and polka dots, stripes and more!

Who says you can’t wear that? Spring is about being Bold, being you, and being new

Rose Belted Tank Bubble Dress

In ravishing rose, this fun and flirty frock is a real head-turner. Seam detailing along the bodice creates textural interest, while the pleating lends sassy shape and drape to the bubble skirt. We’ve placed a brown stretch belt high on the waist to flatter the silhouette. Adjustable shoulder straps. Back zip closure.

• Size 14 measures 30″ from center front
• Self: 97% cotton; 3% spandex
• Lining: 100% polyester
• Hand wash cold; line dry

Imported

Cream Floral Belted Party Dress

Gorgeous roses blossom across the light cotton knit of this cream party dress. We’ve added dramatic tucks to lend textural interest to the bodice and a braided brown belt to flatter the figure. A ruffle of tulle under the layered hem gives the skirt a fun and flirty silhouette.

• Size 1 measures 29″ from center front
• Self: 100% cotton
• Lining and netting: 100% polyester
• Hand wash cold; line dry
• Imported

Blue Floral Strapless Party Dress

A brightly colored floral print blooms across this fun and flirty party frock. Folds and pleats accent the bodice above a high-slung belted waist. We added elastic and no-slip piping along the top edge so your strap-free night out is a care-free night out. Don’t forget to twirl and expose the tulle ruffle peeking out from under the skirt. Includes removable spaghetti straps. Back zip entry.

• Size 14 measures 31″ from center front
• Self: 97% cotton; 3% spandex
• Contrast and lining: 100% polyester
• Machine wash cold; line dry
• Imported

Striped Color Block Party Dress

Color blocking, one of the season’s hottest trends, defines this party dress. The tiered neckline, coupled with the banded waist and tie back sash, adds textural interest to the black bodice. The colorfully striped skirt, with a peek of tulle underneath, is pleated for maximum flutter and flow. Adjustable shoulder straps. Fully lined. Back zip entry.

• 31″ long
• Self and contrast 1: 97% cotton; 3% spandex
• Contrast 2 and lining: 100% polyester
• Hand wash cold; line dry
• Imported

Navy Sketch Dot Surplice Dress

This simple but stunning navy blue dress is the perfect combination of comfort and style. Sketchy pink and white polka dots pattern the soft, light rayon. It’s designed with a 70s-inspired faux wrap top and soft shirring at the waist for a flattering silhouette. Features button tab short sleeves and includes a vibrant pink stretch belt. From workdays to weekend, you’ll be looking chic in this print dress.

• Size 1 measures 40″ from shoulder
• 100% rayon
• Machine wash delicate; dry flat
• Imported

Coral White Navy Color Block Tube Dress

The slimming magic of on-trend color blocking casts a spell on the fashion-forward design of this flattering tube dress. A pop of coral on the bodice contrasts beautifully with the white and navy color scheme. A high waist, delicate ruching and a smocked back shape the feminine and flirty silhouette. No-slip piping along the top will keep you dancing without worry. Removable adjustable shoulder straps.

• Size 1 measures 32″ from center front
• 100% rayon
• Hand wash cold; dry flat
• Imported

Hey, while you are at it… try out this awesome Nails Inc. nail polish color to go with your Spring dresses! Stay tuned I am in love with this line, we are going to be reviewing it for you. Nails Inc. is available at Sephora.com.